2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26103325D

HOUSE BILL NO. 337

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 11, 2026

A BILL to direct the Department of Medical Assistance Services to evaluate and report on a statewide strategy for integrating certified community health workers into Medicaid managed care and related health and human services programs; report.

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Patron—Anthony

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Referred to Committee on Rules

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. § 1. That the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS), in coordination with the Department of Health, the Department of Social Services, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, and the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, shall evaluate and develop recommendations for a statewide strategy to integrate certified community health workers, as defined in § 32.1-15.1 of the Code of Virginia, into Medicaid managed care and related health and human services programs. In conducting this evaluation, DMAS shall (i) assess the adoption and implementation of the 2024 Medicare Community Health Integration services codes HCPCS G0019 and G0022 and determine the feasibility and potential fiscal implications of establishing Medicaid reimbursement for community health worker-delivered services through a state plan amendment or other allowable mechanism; (ii) evaluate opportunities and conditions under which DMAS should consider requiring Medicaid managed care organizations to embed certified community health workers into care coordination models, including support for chronic disease management, behavioral health, aging services, disability services, and social determinants of health navigation; (iii) develop statewide workforce pathways for community health worker training that are accessible to Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who are subject to federal community engagement or work requirements, in coordination with Virginia Works or any successor workforce development entity, the Virginia Community College System, and the Department of Education; (iv) assess the role of certified community health workers in supporting eligibility accuracy, reducing churn, and strengthening navigation for Medicaid and SNAP recipients in light of federal changes, including new administrative and documentation requirements; and (v) identify opportunities to deploy certified community health workers to support high-need and high-cost Medicaid populations, including individuals with chronic conditions, serious mental illness, substance use disorders, disabilities, or complex social needs. In completing these tasks, DMAS shall consult with the Virginia Community Health Worker Association, Medicaid managed care organizations, local departments of social services, community-based providers, and other relevant stakeholders as appropriate. DMAS shall submit a report of its findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislative or regulatory changes to the Joint Commission on Health Care and the Chairs of the House Committee on Appropriations and the Senate Committee on Finance and Appropriations no later than December 1, 2026.